Understanding the Causes of Bad Breath

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is a common condition that affects many people, especially in the morning.

The most common cause of bad breath is the degradation of protein and protein fragments by microorganisms residing on the tongue and teeth.

These microorganisms break down amino acids, such as cysteine and methionine, into volatile sulfur compounds, which contribute to the foul odor.

Approximately 50% of adults have early morning concentrations of these compounds in their mouth air that exceed the threshold of objectionability.

Other factors that can contribute to bad breath include a dry mouth and low salivary flow, which create an environment favorable for bacterial proliferation and putrefaction.

The Role of Water in Reducing Morning Bad Breath

Rinsing or drinking water upon awakening can help reduce morning bad breath.

A randomized clinical trial found that rinsing the mouth with a tablespoon of water or drinking about a cup of water in the morning significantly improved bad breath.

The mechanical action of chewing during breakfast stimulates the flow of saliva and removes putrified surface film from the tongue, resulting in a 60% drop in hydrogen sulfide levels.

While water can be effective in reducing bad breath, it's important to note that it may only provide temporary relief and not address the underlying causes of halitosis.

Tongue Scraping vs. Tongue Brushing

Tongue cleaning is an important hygienic procedure to reduce morning bad breath.

A study comparing tongue scraping and tongue brushing found that tongue scraping was slightly more effective in reducing mouth odor.

The width of a regular tongue scraper may make it more effective in removing loosened debris from the tongue compared to a toothbrush.

However, other studies have shown no significant difference between tongue brushing and tongue scraping in reducing oral odor.

It's important to find a tongue cleaning method that works best for you and incorporate it into your daily oral hygiene routine.